Baumholder, Germany -- Soldiers from Delta Battery, 5th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery Regiment convoy to Poland May 30 to participate in exercise Anakonda 16.
It was a cold and rainy Memorial Day afternoon as over 30 Soldiers prepared their 11 vehicles to leave for Poland. This convoy is just one of 11 convoys carrying 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Soldiers to exercise Anakonda 16. Despite the dreary weather, a palpable sense of excitement filled the motor pool as the convoy prepared for their 3 day 1116 kilometer movement.
"This is my first major exercise," said Pvt. Aaron Draney, a 14T Patriot Launching Station Enhanced Operator/Maintainer, "I'm excited for the experience and training opportunities we're about to have."
These Soldiers along with the rest of the 10th AAMDC head into exercise Anakonda 16 with the aim of showcasing air defense interoperability with their NATO allies and to highlight their dedication to working with Poland.
"Our battery is 100% certified," stated Spc. Justin Schultz, a 14E Patriot Fire Control Enhanced Operator/Maintainer, "we're looking forward to showcasing our skills and abilities."
As the sun began to set the members of the convoy draw their weapons from the arms room and 2nd Lt. Hope Landsem, the convoy commander, initiated final pre-combat checks and inspections. Then, under cover of darkness, the convoy began its long journey. After months of planning and preparation these Delta Battery Soldiers, and the rest of the 10th AAMDC were finally on the road to exercise Anakonda 16.
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